Before buying legal cannabis, learn the difference between THC and terpenes

Learn the key differences between THC and terpenes.(Photo: Getty Images)

Now that cannabis is legal for both medicinal and recreational use in the state of California, more people are testing the waters, and they often have questions about how to consume and use cannabis. That’s why it’s so important to buy cannabis legally from licensed retailers like Skunkmasters.

Beyond the first round of decisions — such as sativa versus indica (those are the two major types of cannabis) and edibles versus flowers, tinctures and/or topicals — new cannabis users have to choose which effects they’d like to feel. Although every person reacts differently to cannabis, there are certain components within the plant that are known to elicit specific benefits or responses. Based on the strain and type of preparation you select, you can dial those effects up or down. (There’s no need to be an expert — the staff at Skunkmasters can help you narrow down your choices.)

To determine what’s right for you, let’s start with a brief science lesson.

Cannabis 101

Cannabis, like all plants, contains naturally occurring compounds called phytochemicals, which serve as a defense system. These phytochemicals are responsible for the effects you feel in your mind and body after consuming cannabis, so you’ll hear them referred to as “active compounds.” The two main groups of active compounds are cannabinoids and terpenes. There are more than 70 known cannabinoids and more than 30 known terpenes in cannabis. Each one plays a specific role and is responsible for a certain feeling within the body. For example, the terpene linalool (a compound also found in mint and citrus fruit) has sedative qualities, while tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THCA, is a cannabinoid with anti-inflammatory properties.

Understanding THC and CBD

Two of the best-known cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol, abbreviated as THC, and cannabidiol, or CBD, which have different effects on the body. THC is the most prevalent cannabinoid and the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, but CBD doesn’t have that same benefit. (That’s why CBD has become common among those who want to treat pain, inflammation, nausea and anxiety, as well as symptoms of various health conditions, without the psychoactive effects usually associated with cannabis.)

THC vs. terpenes

Terpenes help plants live long and prosper, so to speak. They deter or attract insects, keep plants safe from environmental threats and build other active compounds (like cannabinoids). These tiny molecules are incredibly important to both the psychoactive and physiological properties of cannabis.

Cannabinoids and terpenes work in synergy, meaning that they are collectively stronger and more potent than their individual parts. This “entourage effect” distinguishes one strain of cannabis from another. From a biochemical perspective, the terpenes are what guide the benefits you feel when you consume cannabis. The ratio of cannabinoids, such as THC, to terpenes in different strains causes you to experience certain benefits more intensely than others. Terpenes are also responsible for the variance in scent from one strain to another: Certain terpenes tend to smell floral, citrusy or skunky.

When you shop at a reputable, licensed retailer like Skunkmasters, you can learn more about the different ratios of terpenes to other active compounds — knowledge that will help you achieve the experience you desire. Some strains might be better suited for sleep, appetite, various health conditions, pain and psychoactive effects than others, based on the entourage effect of the active compounds, especially terpenes.

Skunkmasters’ products are tested to ensure their potency and quality — that includes testing for pesticide residues, heavy metals and bacterial contamination, as well as levels of terpenes, cannabinoids and more. Visit Skunkmasters today to learn more about legal cannabis. Must be at least 21 to purchase cannabis. The products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.

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